WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Today, 139 new cadets attended their graduation ceremony at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in Galt and prepare to embark on their new careers as correctional officers.
“Over the course of your career, you will be forced to make choices – many of which will not earn you recognition. The choices you make when no one is watching will ultimately tell the story of who you are. Doing the right thing isn’t always easy and there are times when it comes at a cost – do it anyway. Integrity is choosing to do what’s right, regardless of the cost.”
Rafael Acevedo, Keynote Speaker and Region IV Associate Director
BIGGER PICTURE: The cadets underwent 13 weeks of rigorous training in the Basic Correctional Officer Academy (BCOA) at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center. The newly graduated cadets will serve in institutions across the state of California.
Marking the occasion, family and friends attended the graduation ceremony to cheer on their loved ones stepping into their new careers. Rafael Acevedo, Region IV Associate Director, delivered the keynote address and welcomed the 139 new correctional officers.
Twenty-nine of the graduates are women, highlighting the continued efforts being made by CDCR to achieve the “30×30” pledge to have women make up 30 percent of correctional officer cadets by 2030.
“I was really inspired by my dad, who served 29 years in the Department. I looked up to him and watched him promote through the ranks. Because of him, I chose this path – I made it through the academy and I now have what it takes to be a correctional officer.”
Isabella Espinoza, Graduate of BCOA Class 3-26A
Academy Quick Facts
- The Basic Correctional Officer Academy (BCOA), located in Galt, is a 13-week program.
- To attend the academy, candidates must complete the selection process and accept an institution assignment.
- After accepting an assignment, candidates will receive an email with the information needed before the start of the academy. They must submit the required peace officer selection forms and handouts as specified in the e-mail/letter. Institution assignments are based on department needs.
- Cadets who live more than 30 miles from the academy (one-way) have the option of living on-site at no cost or off-site at their own expense. Cadets may leave the grounds from the end of the scheduled duty day on Friday until the start of the scheduled duty hours on Monday. All attending cadets will be provided meals during the academy.
- Each cadet will need $1,300 to $1,500 to buy required uniforms, equipment/accessories, athletic gear, and school supplies. Once you graduate and report to your institution, you will be eligible to receive an annual uniform allowance of up to $1,000.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.
Learn more about the correctional officer selection process.
B-roll class 3-26A, August 28, 2026.
Photos class 3-26A, August 28, 2026.
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